State Library of New South Wales

The State Library of New South Wales is the principal public reference and heritage library for the state, located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It houses major research collections used by the public and scholars.

Public reading rooms, exhibitions and special collections draws visitors interested in history, genealogy and research. The library presents permanent and temporary displays from its holdings and provides reading-room access to important archival materials.

Established as the colony’s central library, the institution grew into the state’s primary library and archive over the 19th and 20th centuries. Its collections, including major Australiana holdings, were assembled through donations, acquisitions and government support.

The library sits in central Sydney within the city’s cultural precinct, close to other public institutions and transport links in the central business district.

• Central location: Located in Sydney's central business district with easy access from the city centre and adjacent cultural institutions.

What to See #

• Mitchell Library: The Mitchell Library is the library's major research collection specialising in Australian history and Australiana, with reading rooms for researchers and members of the public.